CONWAYLehigh Valley Railroad

by John Hinson

Photograph from the collection of Dr. J W F Scrimgeour

The Lehigh Valley Railroad (in Pennsylvania) had more of a British feel
than most of the lines in the United States, both through having towers that
looked like British signal boxes and the use of the electric train staff system
to signal their trains. This latter was rare in the US, most single lines being
worked by written instructions (Train Orders) issued to the Engineers
(drivers).

In this undoubtedly posed view, the tower operator stands at the top of
his staircase, train staff in hand. In fact, he appears to be about to throw it
into the monstrous sack in the foreground! That sack was, in fact, provided for
the catching of train staffs at speed from passing trains.

Part of the eight-lever frame is visible in this interior view, but most
prominent is the Union Switch & Signal Co. electric train staff instrument.
It is remarkable that such a small and insignificant tower as this should be
provided with hot running water and heating.

Note the operator's leather sleeve protectors.

Photograph from the collection of Dr. J W F Scrimgeour

The previous photograph is of sufficient quality to allow enlargement of
the diagram, or board to show the detail of the layout at this small
location.

The provision of a manipulation chart seems a little excessive, given
the simplicity of the layout. However, photographs of interiors of other towers
in the United States suggests that it was standard practice to provide pulling
details.